Testimonials

Grafton Banks Finance are excellent at listening and understanding my requirements. They are very approachable and took the time to listen to my needs. They sourced suitable opportunities and regularly updated me. If I knew of anyone looking for work within practice and they needed help with finding a new position, I wouldn't hesitate to recommend them.

Helen Perry placed at HSC Accountants in Brighton

I feel as though Neil really listened to my requirements and had a good grasp of what I was looking for. This was reflected in the roles that were put forward to me and also helped me to make some difficult decisions.
Within my first week of registering at Grafton Banks Finance I was presented with several relevant opportunities and within 2-3 weeks I had been for 2 interviews, one of which was successful. There was a great level of contact throughout the whole recruitment process and I was kept informed every step of the way. It was a nice touch to receive e-mails even after I had been placed to make sure I had settled in well. Any issues and questions I had were dealt with efficiently through my Agent and nothing was too much hassle.
I have worked with other Agencies in the past and I can honestly say that the service I received from Grafton Banks Finance was head and shoulders above the rest. There was no pressure to attend interviews or put myself forward for roles I wasn't comfortable with, I had a great deal of support from my Agent when I needed it and overall a really smooth process.

Part Qualified Finance Analyst placed in Brighton

The job I secured was a great choice of a job for my ability and expertise. There was flexible and easy access to communication with my representative at Grafton Banks Finance. They were very helpful and keen to deliver the best for the client and potential employee of the client. Just to say thank you for giving me an opportunity to start my career. The consultants were a pleasure to deal with and had such a positive and supportive outlook.

Anna Roberts placed at Cmed in Horsham as Finance Assistant

Following an initial telephone conversation Sophie was able to find a suitable opportunity for me. The role on offer was exactly what I was looking for in terms of the job, size and type of company. I was very lucky in that the first job Grafton Banks put me forward for I was offered, I really could not have asked for anymore. I met Sophie prior to attending my interview and although there was a very short window of time Sophie kept me up to date with developments on the offer. She was able to negotiate the best deal for me and I believe my new employer in a way that both parties were very happy. From interview to job offer was less than 24 hours and in this time there were a number of questions I needed answers to. The fact the whole thing was wrapped up so quickly shows an understanding of what I was looking for and what was important to me from a new employer. I have to say that my experience with Grafton Banks was nothing but positive and I believe my new employer was also impressed with their ability to put the right candidates in front of them.

Phil Stedman placed at Jointing Technologies in Woking

I have always held in high regard the way Alex and his team at Grafton Banks conducts business, as since I've known him he has always practised the values of tenacity, honesty, creativity and professionalism.

Alex's business style is a perfect blend of technology and social media, combined with old-school networking and understanding his clients and candidates requirements. I highly recommend working with Alex, and I look forward to continuing doing so for many more years.

Alex was exceptionally helpful in finding me my current role and one of the best things that he did (which is unusual for recruitment agents), was that he listened to what I wanted and the role that I wanted and did not try to push unsuitable jobs on to me. He then helped me through the application process up to the point where I was successfully taken on. Alex's attention to detail also meant that I got the first job role that I went for.

Bobby Bunn, Financial Accountant at Hastings Direct, Bexhill

Grafton Banks Finance took several opportunities to ask me a number of questions to fully understand my level of experience, and what I was hoping to achieve, and I always had the feeling they were carefully listening to my responses, and weighing up the kind of roles that would be a suitable, long-term match for me. The roles put before me were always relevant in all respects, including reflecting my existing skills and abilities, future prospects, travel, etc.
I was particularly impressed that the consultant diarised the gist of an early conversation, and accordingly proactively contacted me via social media to check on my situation, and that they took the time to email and call me at all stages of the recruitment process, including after recruitment. They also gave me plenty of quality time in our face-to-face meeting, to the extent that they actually helped to influence my decision-making.

It was clear from the start that I could rely on them to give me a considered and intelligent answer if I had any questions about the prospective employer, and also a constructive and assertive response if I did need any help with issues once the selection process was underway.
I would have no hesitation in recommending Grafton Banks Finance to both prospective practice employees, and practice owners / business owners with suitable recruitment needs.

Part-Qualified Accountant placed at an independent East Sussex Practice.

I found out about Grafton Banks quite late in my job search (via REED website), but found them to be very quick to identify my requirements, and to start finding roles for me. Alex was able to find several opportunities in a short space of time, and through his clear understanding of where my interests and experiences lay, I found almost all of these roles to be ones I was interested in. He knew a lot about both the companies and the roles which we talked about.Alex was prompt in returning my calls, and would update me even if just to say that the recruiter hadn't yet got back to him.I met with Alex and Nigel, who both offered me sound career advice in order to help me reach a good career decision. I was very happy with the professional way they conducted themselves, and was pleased that I didn't feel as though I was being coerced into a decision I didn't want to make.

Senior Finance Analyst at Kimberly Clark in Brighton

I feel that of all the recruiters I have been registered with, and there have been a fair few including many of the big names, the service at Grafton Banks far exceeded anything I saw or experienced elsewhere. I asked for roles in a particular region and those were generally the only ones which were offered to me. I was offered roles with a broad spectrum of activities and feel that those I was most interested in were acknowledged and similar roles were found, particularly being able to use technical accounting knowledge which has partly led to the role I will be starting in two weeks.

I must say at first I didn't realise Grafton Banks were a small company as the reach, range and locations of the roles available were so good and the service so fast and professional. I can certainly say I felt well informed at every stage of each process we went through and that goes for all team members, particularly Alex and Paul who I dealt with in the main. I just want to thank the whole team for all their efforts and to tell them that if at any point in the future I am in a position to recruit in their region they will be my first port of call.

From the first minute of our meeting I could see that Paul Bavin was prepared to listen to what I had to say very carefully in order to fully understand exactly what I was looking for in my future job. I thought it was a great idea, as he started talking about Grafton Banks Finance background and how he decided to work for the agency. Although our first meeting was very informal, it allowed an ice breaker and left me feeling more comfortable and confident to talk about my past experience, skills and future job expectations.

I have been kept fully informed about every step in the job selection process. Previously dealing with other agencies, I was left with a short confirmation e-mail that only listed my interview time/date and a company contact details. This time I was e-mailed a detailed description of what to expect from the interview and how to prepare for it. I also had a telephone conversation with Paul to ensure that I was fully prepared. That not only greatly supported me at my interview preparation stage, but also gave me the confidence that I needed during my interview.

I knew that I could ask Paul any questions I had and discuss anything that worried me. Paul replied to all my questions with confidence and gave an impression of someone who is able to support and resolve any issues.

I can say with confidence that I have received a highly professional level of service from Grafton Banks Finance and have already recommended them to my friends.

Part Qualified Accountant placed with an Aviation Company in Crawley

Alex is a person who looks out for the interests of his clients and will support them when required, as well as going out of his way to ensure that they get what they need. He has integrity and I would certainly use him again in the future.

Financial Controller placed at £10m turnover Manufacturing Company in Crawley

Throughout my dealings with Emma, I felt that she understood all of my requirements in terms of the level and variety I was looking for in a role. Although Grafton Banks Finance was slightly out of my geographical area, Emma sourced a number of clients who had suitable locations for me, the one particular role that I applied for was a good match and Emma worked hard to get me selected initially for the interview process. I was kept informed of progress throughout and given clear feedback and guidance on preparation for next stages. Emma was always available and through her strong relationship with the client was able to answer any queries. It was a real pleasure to deal with Emma and I would certainly contact her at Grafton Banks in the future for my job placement requirements, whether for me, or as an employer.

Jane Capel

I have had a very good experience with Grafton Banks and have been put forward for more positions by this recruitment specialist than all the other agencies together. Their approach is friendly but always professional. Their recruiters have been extremely proactive and contact me on a regular basis with information on vacancies that are of interest to me. They are particularly good at matching the candidate to the role and although I have not been successful to date I realise that Grafton Banks are the most likely to play a part in my eventual success in the job search. I am indeed "delighted"

I found everyone at Grafton Banks Finance to be very helpful and came back to me in a timely manner about the interview process and feedback for the interview I attended. They understood my requirements and found a role that best suited these.
All queries and issues were dealt with quickly and I was also informed of updates from the client. I would recommend Grafton Banks Finance to others and use them in the future.
A lot of the big recruitment agencies forget about you or over call you and make the experience painful. But with Grafton Banks Finance it was very easy and I found the overall experience stress free. I am very pleased with the job they found for me.

Gemma Turner

Paul is a rare gem in the world of recruitment. He has really impressed me with his drive, passion and unique placement skills while helping me secure a new appointment, and I highly recommend his services. Thank you, Paul!

Finance Business Partner placed in FMCG business in Surbiton.

Grafton Banks Finance ability to listen and understand my requirements was extremely good. I spoke to a number of people in the team and they were all very attentive.
They continued to keep in touch throughout and the level of contact was very good, they were always very quick to respond. I have enjoyed working with Grafton Banks Finance from both sides of the fence and look forward to continuing this relationship going forwards.

Steve Law placed as Interim Finance Systems Project Accountant

I'd like to take this opportunity to say big thank you to Matthew Roff for the valuable
assistance given to me during my job search. I have very much appreciated his understanding of my requirements and his persistence on my behalf. His attention to details, great listening skills, willingness to go extra mile and light and cheerful attitude make such a difference. He helped to make the disheartening experience of job seeking into a more personal and positive one, and I shall recommend him to anyone I know, who would benefit from his excellent assistance.

Antonina Pemberton placed at One Family in Brighton - Temporary Accounts Technician.

Alex at Grafton Banks Finance was very helpful in guiding me through the application process and providing valuable advice on career decisions. I found the briefing before each interview step quite useful. Alex kept me permanently informed about the progress of my application using various methods of contact. All questions that I raised could be answered and solved to my full satisfaction.

Holger Krause placed at CHEP in Weybridge as German Speaking Senior Financial Accountant

Grafton Banks were extremely helpful in my recent job search, taking the time to meet me personally to discuss my career and the roles I might be interested in. They subsequently found me a really unique opportunity and a role that I can truly say I enjoy.

Matthew Bristow placed as Group Analyst at Westpoint Veterinary Group in Horsham

Alex was brilliant at listening and understanding my requirements. I came in for an initial meeting with one of the consultants at Grafton Banks and we sat down to discuss my requirements. Notes were taken and shared with colleagues and this was evident as I was only approached for roles that met my requirements, which were also very specific. I feel the team understood what I was looking for and only approached me when they found it. Communication was great and so was the level of contact. I have a really tight schedule and working mostly at clients' premises doesn't help but Alex found a way to accommodate me for example, just before my interview, we met in Crawley, near my office after five just so he could help me prepare. This level of service was much appreciated. I didn't really have a lot of questions but that is likely because communication was spot on from the beginning until the end. I felt like I knew exactly what is going on and the necessary next steps all in good time. I am really happy and grateful for all the help I received in securing my next role.

Rachael Masawi placed as Internal Auditor at Fintrax in Redhill

What I really appreciate about Grafton Banks is that they do not compartmentalise finance professionals into pre-conceived boxes, rather they value each and every candidate on their own unique talent. This matters and the personal touch really helps to distinguish Grafton Banks from their many competitors. We have met many times over the years and every time it feels like meeting with an old friend.
Grafton Banks fly in the face of anyone who believes that agencies add little or no value. Within days of finishing a previous contract earlier than expected, Grafton Banks secured me another role. In fact, one of the best contract roles I have had to date and I have been contracting now for ten years at a senior level for many amazing clients! A win-win-win, for them, for me and most of all for the client.
The beginning of this year was unusually tough. Always a challenging time to be on the contract market and this time around, more agencies than usual were being particularly despondent. Throughout this time, Grafton Banks bucked the trend and proactively went out of their way to keep in regular contact. I found their frank and honest assessment of the market coupled with a good dose of positivity to be a huge source of encouragement and inspiration.

Unlike some of their competitors, on the rare occasion that no one was available to take my call, Grafton Banks without fail always returned my calls in a timely fashion. There is never the feeling of being rushed or being treated like a sales target.

Please keep doing what you are doing. It works. Massive thanks to Paul and Emma in particular for their much valued work- it really does make a difference.

Grafton Banks Finance was very good and understood what kind of role I was looking for and was honest with the type of opportunities available.
They only passed suitable roles over to me and spoke to me about any potential jobs that could be out there. They regularly kept me updated even in the early weeks when jobs were more thin on the ground. They were good to talk to openly and refreshingly unpushy. I would thoroughly recommend Grafton Banks Finance even if I had not got a job through them.

Alex Koupland now working for Plus Accounting, Brighton.

Grafton Banks were excellent at matching not only the job but the culture of the company to the individual and making a match. Service was proactive, personal and successful you can't ask for more.

Erica Burke at Novo Nordisk, Crawley

Alex has been key in helping me secure my new job. He was incredibly helpful, efficient and diligent in his position as a recruitment consultant, and I have no hesitation in recommending him.

Ben Essex at EDF Energy, Hove

Grafton Banks Finance was very good at assessing the information and looking for positions that were a good fit. The sourcing of relevant opportunities was excellent, despite the difficulties of my situation, the team found a number of interesting positions that were appropriate. Grafton Banks Finance was eager to assist and respond to questions and full of helpful advice on areas such as practising ability tests. I was extremely pleased with the assistance the team at Grafton Banks gave me; everyone was very helpful and thinking 'outside the box' to find suitable opportunities in a difficult climate.

Sharon Davis, now Management Accountant at Acumen PI in Brighton.

Emma and I had detailed discussions around my CV and my requirements for a new role and company. She asked relevant questions to ensure that she had a full understanding of my needs and I was confident that she knew what I was looking for. Unlike some other agencies, I was only approached with roles which matched my requirements, rather than just sending over anything and everything. This is something that I really appreciate as it confirms an understanding of requirements and also does not waste everybody's time. Emma was openly proactive in her search for me, sending over a list of companies that she worked with to discuss if I would like her to approach any of them on my behalf. Emma and I kept in regular contact and if there were no relevant vacancies she would still ring me to check on my status and let me know that they were still looking for me. We built up an easy relationship and the flow of information was fluid. I had no doubt that if Emma needed to clarify any information that she would have done so and got back to me very promptly. I would just like to say that it was a pleasure working with Emma and the team at Grafton Banks and to thank you for all your help. I will definitely contact Grafton in the future.

Hayley White

I am extremely grateful to you Grafton Banks Finance for how much effort you put in with regards to contacting me about the job at Knill James and before and after each interview stage. It felt like I was receiving a more personal service and not just someone that you wanted to get on the books like I felt when being contacted by other agencies. All my questions regarding the job were answered while we were on the phone or shortly after which considering my issue with already having an offer in place made my decisions so much easier. One thing that I also appreciated was that when you were not in the office and I spoke to another colleague they knew why I was contacting and were able to speak to me and not just say that you would return my call when you were back at work. I don't really know what more I can say but just thanks again for all your help in finding me a position so quickly after finishing University. I would definitely recommend Grafton Banks to anyone else in the industry!

Madeline Burt now at Knill James in Lewes.

Grafton Banks have set themselves apart from other agencies by taking the time to understand my job search and have delivered multiple roles that meet my search criteria. They have been both higly proffesional and personable and all of their team members are a pleasure to work with. They will certainly be my first call in the future whether I'm looking for a new role myself or looking to recruit others. It would be fair to say that I have been delighted by their service!

Adam Jewell now Financial Controller at Cmed Group in Horsham.

Grafton Banks Finance gave a very personal service, and was able to arrange a meeting in person the day before my first interview. This settled nerves and gave me interview practice. They also provided me with lots of information about the company, allowing me to impress the following day.
I had initially applied for a different job through Grafton Banks. However, they felt I would be more suitable for another position. It was a much closer commute, and actually reflected my needs much greater. As discussed above, they were always available, making time to meet with me the day before the primary interview. After each interview, they was interested to hear how every aspect of the interview had gone, and called me back straight away with news from the employer.

In the appointment I had with Grafton Banks, we spoke for an extended period about any queries I had. I was new to accountancy, and having just come from University, interviewing for a junior accountancy role seemed daunting. They talked me through some of the basics of accountancy as well as interview techniques, allowing me to feel more confident and prepared.
I am pleased to say that the interview, my first, was successful. Thanks to Grafton Banks for their helpful tips and advice.
Five weeks in, I'm enjoyed my new job. I was most fortunate to have come in contact with Grafton Banks Finance. 25th October 2013.

Oliver Sawyers now working for Williams & Co in Epsom.

The team at Grafton Banks helped me immensely with my search for a new position in Finance upon relocating to Brighton. They were not only extremely approachable but also very knowledgeable of my industry. Communication was always attentive and personable and I felt valued as a client during the whole process. Both the very interesting companies I interviewed with through Grafton Banks made me great offers and I'm certain the excellent service provided by the team contributed to what my new employers described as one of the fastest recruitments in the history of the company!

Isadora King placed at the Study Group, Brighton.

Paul met me face to face and took the time to gain a good understanding of my experience and strengths, as well as my career aspirations. I felt that Paul only introduced me to opportunities which matched my skills, experience and location. He explained the roles clearly, and the reasons why the employer was recruiting. He never tried to push me into anything unsuitable. Paul was very supportive at every stage during the interview process. He would explain the culture of the employer, the background to the vacancy, and what the employer was looking for in a candidate. Paul followed up with me after each interview, and provided feedback from the employer. He also tried to keep me informed even if he was waiting on a response from the employer. Paul's strong understanding of his clients meant that he was always able to provide me with prompt answers to any questions I had. He was also helpful when it came to the employer clarifying their offer and issuing the proposed contract of employment.

Ian Hamer placed as Financial Controller at Langmead Farms in West Sussex

Alex is a very astute and focused person. He was invaluable in my search for my next role and provided some excellent insights once an interview was secured. His advice allowed me to tailor my approach to the process and this definitely helped to secure the role. I can highly recommend him and Grafton Banks

Tony Sweetman placed as Financial Controller into Redhill based Manufacturing Company

From the start, Alex was approachable, extremely helpful and made himself available to answer any questions I had. He understood my requirements as a candidate and took the time to approach me with roles that could be of interest. He guided me throughout my interview process from the start through to accepting an offer, and I would not hesitate to recommend him to anyone looking for new roles in the future in Surrey.

My needs were carefully noted by Sophie on the initial consultation. My current role fulfils all of my requirements, so I was very satisfied they were met. I was quickly provided with an opportunity that was highly suited to my skills and what I was looking for. I was also constantly kept informed of any developments or updates. Additionally, I was provided with some great tips and preparation. All of my questions were answered efficiently and swiftly, in great detail and I was extremely satisfied overall. It was a hassle free and efficient process.

Mario Stojanac placed as Part Qualified Management Accountant at Updata in Reigate

Alex worked hard to get me the role I wanted. He only provided roles that fitted the criteria I requested. Alex was very proactive, regularly chasing both me and my potential employer to ensure that the recruitment progressed. He went the extra mile by staying late at work to ensure that we had at least one face to face meeting (as I live quite far away). After my role was secured, he still made an effort by wishing me luck the day before I started my new role. Thanks for all your hard work Alex!

Andrew Ward - Now Technical Finance Manager at esure, Reigate

My first experience with Grafton Banks Finance has been excellent. Thanks to the team for their genuine, positive and professional attitude. They been very helpful and informative every step of the way from the initial application process through the interview preparation and finally getting me ready to secure the new job. Always readily available and I will gladly recommend them to any of my friends/colleagues. Thank you for the great work.

Grafton Banks Finance were very good at listening and understanding my particular requirements. I had very limited geographic search and not once did they come with an "excellent opportunity in Crawley", (like so many others!) I needed a job in Brighton and that's what I got. They seemed to have good contacts in large and small firms. They understood what sort of roles I was looking for and did not waste my time with any other roles. There was a good level of contact and I appreciated the honesty when they were quiet and there were no roles. There was also good contact during the interview process. Grafton Banks Finance were able to deal with questions on roles and company. If they didn't have the information they were willing to find out. Alex and Nigel were both very helpful, honest and professional at all times. They provided a service that was head and shoulders above other agencies I was registered with at the time.

Finance Analyst at Kimberly Clark in Brighton

Alex gives a personal service to both his clients and the candidates he works with. He takes the time to find out the clients needs and understand the candidates goal. Many recruiters just run a process so fail to understand the business needs.

Rob Wilby at Scotia Gas Networks, Horley

Alex has helped find me my first role out in commerce from practice. A range of opportunities were offered and helpful advice given in progressing me through the interview process. The thing I most like about Grafton Banks Finance is that they are very personable, and I genuinely feel I've built a good relationship with the team, and they cared about finding the right role. It is something that sets them apart from other recruiters!

Paul Bavin was fantastic at finding me job opportunities which were specific to my needs. Emma was just as dedicated on the temporary side. Opportunities presented were very suitable. Paul asked me to make a list of the skills I felt were relevant to a particular role as well as the qualities I could offer the client. This was a very good approach as it provides another aspect to support my CV (most finance CVs look very similar)! Paul and Emma were always available even when I wasn't. There was an instance where Emma even called from home when she was supposed to have time to herself. I never had to wait more than 10 minutes or so for a call back if one of them were on the phone when I called the agency. Paul made sure I was aware of any decisions being made relating to second interviews and job offers with feedback from the client and any particular reservations they had. Paul provided me with more than enough information relating to the client I was interviewing with. He was able to deal with any queries I had relating to the job specification and the company. Paul is very aware of the market and knows exactly how to market candidates. Grafton Banks Finance is by far the best agency I have come across and I will most certainly recommend them to everyone.

Part Qualified Accountant placed for organisation in Lewes

Grafton Banks Finance was very good at listening and understanding my requirements and got me an interview for a job that matched my particular requirements for work. They were very good at keeping me informed, and were in regular contact from when we first spoke to arranging a further meeting prior to the interview a week later. I did not have many issues or questions but any I had were dealt with quickly and simply.

From our very first telephone conversation to our meeting in person, and throughout the whole recruitment process, Emma has been honest, genuine and generally fantastic, at listening, and then providing clear feedback and constructive advice.
From the start, Emma made a point of listening carefully to my synopsis of my career history, reviewing my CV and my current situation, as well as my aspirations going forward. Whilst I am a professional, I am also a mum with teenage children who wants to work closer to home, and I felt Emma had a genuine interest in finding the most suitable role for me
Emma was honest about the availability of contract roles in my chosen geographical area, but also made a point of contacting me regularly to discuss the suitability of possible roles as they came up. She has excellent insight into the requirements of the recruiting companies, and was able to advise me in my job applications. Within a few weeks she had guided me sufficiently to secure interviews with the two companies I applied to and then to get the first role that I actually interviewed for, which was my preferred role.
Emma put a lot of effort into ensuring that all issues and questions were dealt with promptly from all sides, in both the pre and post interview stages of the recruitment process.
There was an excellent level of contact between myself, not only with Emma, but I was also kept informed by other Grafton Banks colleagues, Nigel and Marie. I was always able to speak to Emma directly or a colleague when I called for feedback. My calls were always returned where necessary, and emails always answered.
I feel that I have received a pleasantly personal and generally excellent level of service which exceeds my experiences with other agencies. I would definitely recommend Emma and the team, and will contact them again myself for future

Interim Finance Manager placed at Legal & General, Kingswood

I was really pleased with the service that I received from Grafton Banks but the main thing that I appreciated was how nice and friendly all the staff were at all times of contact. If my contact wasn't around to answer any questions I had someone else would be able to answer my questions then and there or get back to me with a response. With using a specific accountancy sector agency I found that I was taken more seriously than other agents I contacted and that all my preferences in job hunting were considered with other suggestions made and avenues considered. The before and after interview contact made while I was going through the interview stage really helped me refine my answers to the interview questions making me come across as a better candidate for the position that I was then offered. I would definitely contact Grafton Banks again if I was to look to moving from my current position.

Madeline Burt now Trainee Accountant at Knill James in Lewes

A big thank you to Paul for his very professional approach towards the contract I am now working on with Volution Holdings, not only did Paul get me this contract but also another, so I had to choose between two! Paul was professional at every step, keeping me up to date at all times and provided solid advice whilst being completely impartial. Thank you.

Interim IFRS Financial Accountant at Volution Holdings, Crawley.

Alex and the team at Grafton Banks really did an excellent job in finding me my new role as UK Finance Director at Volution Group and I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for a finance recruitment solution in the Sussex/Surrey area.